Birch Trail

One of my favorite close-in hikes in up Holman lane and down Birch Trail. You can extend it if you want with several different options to get back to your starting point. In late summer, the light in the afternoon is always very beautiful.

Roots

This was one of my favorite tree photos, with the dense tangle of roots holding the stump in place on a steep bank. This tree is along a trail in Washington Park near the Redwood grove which has since been closed.

Blackberries

Hiking along certain trails around Portland in late July through August has its perks. Blackberries ripening on the vine.

Tiger Lilies

Among all the flowers one encounters along the trails this time of year, Tiger Lilies are my favorite. A stem full of tiger lilies.

Up

Today didn't turn out as planned, but that's not a bad thing at all. The plan was to check out Caniçal, which is the next big town east of Machico. I liked Machico so much, I thought the city next door might be just as charming, and both have access to some good trails.